The FCC is launching an investigation into radio stations potentially pressuring artists to perform free concerts in exchange for airplay, following concerns raised by Senator Marsha Blackburn. This practice may represent a new form of payola, which is illegal when undisclosed.

Senator Blackburn reports that artists are being required to perform "free radio shows," often labeled as "listener appreciation shows" or "charitable concert events." Artists typically perform 10-50 such shows annually, with new artists often doing more.

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr has directed the agency's Enforcement Bureau to examine these claims, with updates expected soon.

Simultaneously, the American Music Fairness Act has gained renewed bipartisan support. The bill addresses a unique aspect of U.S. broadcasting law: unlike most countries, American AM/FM radio stations only pay royalties for musical compositions, not for recordings.

This exemption dates back to radio's role as a primary music promoter, when labels would pay for airplay rather than receive compensation. Despite significant changes in the music industry since then, broadcasters have successfully maintained this system by:

• Opposing new legislation for additional royalties
• Supporting the Local Radio Freedom Act
• Leveraging their congressional influence

The American Music Fairness Act's success now depends on whether its current bipartisan momentum can overcome traditional broadcast industry resistance.

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